A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a hemicolectomy. Which of the following is a subjective indication that the client needs PRN pain medication?
The client's heart rate is 110/min.
The client is guarding their abdominal incision.
The client exhibits facial grimacing.
The client reports pain.
The Correct Answer is D
The subjective indication that the client needs PRN (as needed) pain medication is when the client reports pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and it is essential to address the client's self-reported pain level and provide appropriate pain management.
Explanation for the other options:
a) The client's heart rate is 110/min: An increased heart rate can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
b) The client is guarding their abdominal incision: Guarding the abdominal incision may suggest discomfort or pain, but it is an objective indication that can be observed by the nurse. Subjective indications focus on the client's self-report.
c) The client exhibits facial grimacing: Facial grimacing can be an objective indication of pain, but it is not a subjective indication. Again, subjective indications are based on the client's self-report or personal experiences.
In this scenario, the most reliable and appropriate indication for administering PRN pain medication is when the client reports pain, as this acknowledges the client's own perception of their pain level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The statement by the parent that they can place a rolled towel on each side of their newborn's head until he can hold his head up indicates an understanding of the teaching. This is a safe and appropriate way to provide support for the newborn's head while in a car seat.
a) Securing the seatbelt across the newborn's lap is not safe. The seatbelt should be positioned across the newborn's chest and over their hips.
b) Moving a child to a booster seat when they weigh 20 pounds is not safe. Children should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat's manufacturer.
c) Turning the car seat forward-facing when the child is 10 months old is not safe. Children should remain in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat's manufacturer.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
b. Keep suction equipment at the client's bedside.
The nurse should plan to include keeping suction equipment at the client's bedside as an intervention for a client with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease can cause dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and an increased risk of aspiration. Having suction equipment readily available allows for prompt intervention in case of choking or aspiration episodes, ensuring the client's safety.
Explanation for the other options:
a. Restrict the client's fluid intake: Restricting the client's fluid intake is not typically indicated in the care of a client with Parkinson's disease. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and well-being. However, specific fluid restrictions may be necessary in certain situations, such as if the client has coexisting conditions like heart failure or kidney disease, which should be assessed and determined by the healthcare provider.
c. Instruct the client to look down when ambulating: In Parkinson's disease, individuals often experience a forward-flexed posture and a shuffling gait. Instructing the client to look down when ambulating is not an appropriate intervention. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to maintain an upright posture, take smaller steps, and focus on taking deliberate and controlled movements to promote stability and reduce the risk of falls.
d. Position the client supine after eating: Positioning the client supine after eating is not recommended for a client with Parkinson's disease. This position can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may promote reflux and regurgitation of stomach contents. Instead, the nurse should advise the client to maintain an upright position, such as sitting in a chair or using a recliner with appropriate head support, to aid digestion and reduce the risk of aspiration.
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